BizBeat: Managing chaos, one closet at a time

Two words and a short slogan sum up the whole of Laura Neuner Forbis’s new business. Managed Chaos, LLC — No closet too small! No estate too big!

The Jefferson City native started the personal organizing business in January after a 3 a.m. epiphany and realization that this is the next career move for her.

“I want to help people see how they want the space to work for them and make it happen,” Forbis said.

The entrepreneur said she first realized her gift for organizing and managing otherwise chaotic situations when it came time to clean out her parents’ estate. Looking at a space and knowing how to make it functional is something she has a passion for, and it showed when she began taking inventory, and making spreadsheets and diagrams.

Although Forbis can help organize any room, closet, pantry or garage, she hopes to also help with estates, going in alongside the client, helping organize the space where it can be passed on to an estate sale.

“I’m not going to pretend I know what is important to people,” she said of working directly with the client.

“I’m excited to see this as an extension of ministry,” she said. “It’s meaningful, helping people gain control of their environment.” She is especially glad to help when people most need it, during the hard and emotional times.

One key factor in organizing other people’s homes is listening. Forbis said she does free consultations, where she finds out what the space is intended for, and then plans out the best way to make that happen.

Most people have some messy spaces, so how do you know if you need professional help? Any space that makes you feel frustrated, or that you dread opening the door to, Forbis can help with. “You know you need to get it organized.”

“There is something about making a space usable and functional,” she said, while also noting she enjoys the creative side of things.

Each week on the Managed Chaos, LLC Facebook page, Forbis shares an organizational tip of the week. She hopes to work toward being a certified member of the National Association of Professional Organizers as well.

Forbis previously taught music at Immaculate Conception school for 19 years. She has also sold Mary Kay and gives guitar lessons. This new business, however, will be her focus. She hopes to see it grow into a team. A website is being designed for the new business, but until then, customers can reach Forbis through her Facebook page or by calling 573-645-6579.

Know of any business happenings around town? Let us know at bizbeat@newstribune.com.